Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Engineering

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA to lead polymer materials R&D from concept through commercialization. You will design, synthesize, and characterize polymers, using GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM and TEM to build structure–property relationships and drive material optimization.

A PhD in Materials Science or related field and 5+ years industrial polymer experience are required.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• 5+ years of industrial polymer R&D experience.
• Strong experimental and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the R&D of new polymer materials with tailored properties.
• Design and execute experiments for polymer synthesis, processing, and characterization.
• Utilize analytical techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM, TEM) to evaluate structure and performance.
• Develop structure–property relationships to guide design and optimization.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing to scale up materials and processes.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Material characterization

Processing techniques

Structure–property relationships

Analytical techniques

Leadership

Project management

Technical reporting

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Materials Science / Polymer Science / Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in advanced materials development, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist with expertise in polymer engineering. This crucial role will involve the design, synthesis, characterization, and testing of novel polymeric materials for a wide range of industrial applications. You will be instrumental in driving product innovation from concept through to commercialization, working within a state-of-the-art research facility. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding of polymer science and extensive hands‑on experience in material characterization techniques. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge materials research and development in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new polymer materials with tailored properties for specific applications.
• Design and execute experiments for polymer synthesis, processing, and characterization.
• Utilize a range of analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM, TEM) to evaluate material structure, properties, and performance.
• Develop structure-property relationships to guide material design and optimization.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and manufacturing teams to scale up promising materials and processes.
• Troubleshoot material-related issues in product development and manufacturing.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in polymer science and engineering.
• Author technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers within the materials science team.
• Manage project timelines and resources effectively.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of industrial R&D experience in polymer science and engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing techniques.
• Proven experience with a broad spectrum of material characterization instruments and methodologies.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics, rheology, and mechanical testing.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation of polymer behavior is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong project management and leadership abilities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.
• Ability to work effectively in a laboratory environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a generous retirement savings plan. Opportunities for professional development, including attending scientific conferences and further training, are actively supported. The position includes access to advanced laboratory equipment and resources. This role provides a unique chance to work in a dynamic research environment in a beautiful coastal region, contributing to the development of next‑generation materials.